NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 8:38 AM ET

Quarterback News and Notes

Jets quarterback Geno Smith is dealing with an ankle injury that has made him day-to-day. The injury occurred Wednesday, and Smith was subsequently scratched from Friday night's preseason opener against the Buccaneers. In another preseason development, Tua Tagovailoa expressed frustration with his performance in the Falcons' loss to the Broncos. Tagovailoa played two series, completing 3-of-5 passes for 22 yards. Raiders rookie QB Fernando Mendoza showed promise in his preseason debut, completing 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown across four drives against the Cardinals. Steelers rookie quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard delivered solid performances in a 28-9 preseason victory over the Packers, with both showing poise.

Player Suspensions and Injuries

Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been suspended by the NFL for eight games due to violations of the league's personal conduct policy. Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis will miss the first three games of the season after being suspended for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Commanders defensive end/linebacker Dorance Armstrong will also sit out the season opener without pay for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. Cardinals rookie offensive lineman Chase Bisontis could potentially miss the entire season after tearing his left MCL in Thursday night's preseason game. Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is sidelined with a right hamstring issue, according to coach Kellen Moore. Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason suffered multiple torn knee ligaments during a sideline collision on the final play of Thursday night's preseason game.

Contract and Roster Moves

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed defensive tackle Keeanu Benton to a four-year, $72 million extension, making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history. Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald indicated that positive reviews were a factor in the team's decision to offer Terrion Arnold a contract, despite his current felony charges.

League and Team Developments

Seahawks outside linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed that his upcoming 13th NFL season will be his last. In a move reminiscent of past significant trades, Jerry Jones stated he has no regrets about the trade that sent Micah Parsons away, comparing it to the Herschel Walker deal that fueled the Cowboys' 1990s dynasty. LSU's DJ Pickett has stated he will not change his jersey number from No. 5, despite pushback from Jayden Daniels, with the Commanders' quarterback asserting it will not be a distraction. The Chicago Bears will not alter their team name if they relocate to Indiana, according to chairman George H. McCaskey. A California judge ruled against the Rams in a recent arbitration case, describing the team's arbitration rules as an "employer's attempt to overreach" in a wrongful termination lawsuit. A scuffle between defensive tackle Moro Ojomo and offensive tackle Fred Johnson defined the 11th day of Eagles training camp, raising concerns about potential injuries.

Broadcast and Entertainment News

ESPN analyst Troy Aikman will face broadcast restrictions leading up to "Monday Night Football" games, similar to measures previously implemented for Tom Brady. The Jonas Brothers are scheduled to perform as part of the entertainment for the NFL's inaugural regular-season game in Australia, featuring the 49ers and Rams.

Fantasy Football and Scouting

Matt Bowen has released his quarterback tiers for the upcoming fantasy football season, offering a head start for draft preparation. In college football, Miami and Texas are highlighted as two of twelve schools particularly stacked with NFL draft talent for the 2027 cycle, according to scout insights.

Miscellaneous NFL Notes

An inside look at a Jim Harbaugh team meeting revealed a dynamic environment filled with personal messages and unique terminology. Travis Kelce shared his first public comments regarding his wedding to Taylor Swift, calling it the "best night of my life." Former NFLPA lawyer Heather McPhee has settled a federal lawsuit against the union, in which she alleged conspiracy and retaliation.